DOJ-OIC Vida assures public flood control probe progressing

Department of Justice Officer in Charge Frederick Vida assured the public that despite the careful pace, the investigation is progressing, and both the DOJ and the Ombudsman are committed to ensuring that those responsible for the alleged misuse of flood control funds will be held accountable.

“The process is moving,” he said. “We’re doing everything properly so that accountability can be achieved. Many dedicated public servants are working together to make sure those who should answer for wrongdoing will indeed be held to account.”

Vida said the DOJ will release information on the schedule of preliminary investigations once the Ombudsman finalizes the dates.

This as the DOJ-OIC disclosed on Monday that it has started serving subpoenas and identifying respondents in connection with the cases involving alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

Vida said the process of gathering evidence, verifying charges, and preparing for preliminary investigation is now underway, with the DOJ acting under the authority of the Office of the Ombudsman, which deputized the department to assist in the probe.

“Some of the subpoenas have already been personally served,” Vida said in an interview. “For the initial five cases where the DOJ is deputized by the Office of the Ombudsman, the process has started. Respondents and charges have been identified.”

He said more cases are expected to follow as the Ombudsman continues to review complaints and evidence related to the alleged flood control anomalies, stressing that the anti-graft body is “working double, even triple time” to address public concerns and ensure accountability.

The DOJ-OIC though declined to provide details on the identities of those subpoenaed or the specific charges to be filed, saying he was not yet privy to that information. However, he underscored that the investigation is moving forward and that prosecutors are working to ensure a strong, evidence-based case.

“We need to prove these cases in court,” he said. “The judges and justices are trained to examine the evidence. That’s why we are strengthening the process of evidence gathering to make sure the charges are solid.”

Vida likewise cautioned against drawing premature conclusions based solely on public hearings or media reports, emphasizing the importance of following due process.

He said the process cannot be a shortcut just because something was said in a hearing, adding, “Everyone has rights, and we must always uphold the rule of law. If we take shortcuts, we risk chaos as a nation.”